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ACT vs. SAT: Which One to Choose?
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- ACT and SAT exams assess students across the same areas, which are reading, math, and writing. However, they differ based on scoring, format, and content.
- The ACT exam is conducted seven times a year, while the SAT exam takes place eight times a year.
- Both ACT and SAT help to get into top colleges and universities in the USA, but which one is right? Find out in this blog.
Many colleges and universities require students to submit scores from the SAT or ACT- both recognized standardized exams as part of the admission process. Each test is unique regarding subjects covered, structure and scoring scales. However, both are used to measure students鈥 proficiency, knowledge and skills in core areas such as reading, writing and math.
What is ACT?
ACT, short for American College Testing, is a standard exam for international students to study at American universities and colleges. It has five sections: English, Math, Reading, Science, and Writing (optional). It scores candidates on a scale of 1 to 36. Just like ACT, there is one more exam that US universities use to give admission to international students, which is the SAT.What is SAT?
The SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test) is another standard exam used by universities and colleges in the USA to provide admission to international students. It measures candidates鈥 skills across three areas: Reading, Writing & Language, and Math. It鈥檚 a computer-based, multiple-choice test. Candidates are scored out of 1600, with each section (Reading & Writing, Mathematics) having a weightage of 800 points.ACT vs SAT
- The ACT and the SAT are both standardized tests used for admissions in the US universities and colleges.
- They are designed to measure a student鈥檚 readiness for college-level coursework. While both tests serve the same purpose, there are some differences in their structure and content.
- The SAT tends to focus more on grammar and punctuation. The math sections of both tests cover similar material, but the SAT includes more advanced topics such as trigonometry and higher-level algebra.
Comparison of the ACT and SAT Tests
Here are the key differences between an ACT and SAT exam:
SAT | ACT | |
Why take it | Colleges use SAT scores for admissions and merit-based scholarships. | Colleges use ACT scores for admissions and merit-based scholarships. |
Test Structure | 鈥 Reading 鈥 Writing and Language 鈥 Math | 鈥 English 鈥 Math 鈥 Reading 鈥 Science Reasoning 鈥 Essay (Optional) |
Length | 3 hours | 2 hours, 55 minutes (without essay) 3 hours, 35 minutes (with essay) |
Reading | 5 reading passages | 4 reading passages |
Science | None | 1 science section testing one鈥檚 critical thinking skills (not one鈥檚 specific science knowledge)- STEM preferred |
Math | Covers: 鈥 Arithmetic 鈥 Algebra I and II 鈥 Geometry, Trigonometry and Data Analysis | Covers: 鈥 Arithmetic 鈥 Algebra I and II 鈥 Geometry, Trigonometry, and Probability and Statistics |
Calculator Policy | Some math questions don鈥檛 allow one to use a calculator | One can use a calculator on all math questions |
Essays | No essay | Optional. The essay will test how well one evaluates and analyses complex issues. |
How its scored | Scored on a scale of 400-1600 | Scored on a scale of 1-36 |
ACT vs SAT : Should one take the ACT or SAT?
1. Strong Math Skills
The ACT only has a calculator section that accounts for about 25% of the overall score. If math is not one鈥檚 strong point, taking the ACT may be a better option.
2. Practice Both Tests
Students can practice both tests and try taking a practice test for each. Compare scores for SAT and ACT and also analyse how they felt about the questions and which one felt easier for them.
3. Take Both Tests
ACT vs SAT : How are they similar?
The ACT and SAT share several similarities. Colleges and universities often accept both exams as part of their admission processes and to determine scholarship awards for incoming students. Here are some similarities between the ACT and the SAT exams:
1. Same Format: Both the ACT and SAT evaluate similar topics, including reading, writing and mathematics. On both tests, the reading, writing and language sections are entirely passage-based. These sections measure student鈥檚 proficiency in key areas that help determine college readiness.
2. No Negative Marking: Neither exam penalizes students for incorrect or blank answers. Both award points for correct answers.
How are they different?
Although the SAT and ACT share many similarities, some key distinctions are worth noting. Below are some key differences between the two tests.
1. Scoring scales and ranges
SAT scores range from 400-1600, and ACT composite scores range from 1 to 36.
2. Test format and sections
3. Calculator rules
The SAT includes a section in which the use of calculators is not allowed. ACT test-takers can use a calculator for all math questions.
4. Test Length and Number of Questions
The SAT is three hours long. The ACT is two hours and 55 minutes without the essay section, with the essay, it is three hours and 35 minutes long, while the SAT is without the essay with a duration of 2 hours and 14 minutes.5. Science Section
6. Maths Section
SAT Structure
- Reading and Writing - 64 minutes for 54 questions
- Math test- 70 minutes for 44 questions
Scoring Scale
The highest score a test-taker can earn on the SAT is 1600. The average SAT score is 1050, and students are not penalized for incorrect or unanswered questions.
ACT Structure
The ACT is composed of four primary tests and an optional essay section.- English- 45 minutes for 75 questions
- Math- 60 minutes for 60 questions
- Reading- 35 minutes for 40 questions
- Science Reasoning- 35 minutes for 40 questions
- Essay- (optional)- 40 minutes
Scoring Scale
ACT vs SAT : Test Preparation Tips
1. Start early to get an advantage over competitors.
2. Take practice tests for both exams to identify your strengths and weaknesses.
3. Use online preparation resources like test prep books, YouTube videos, and AI tools.
4. Learn to manage your time efficiently so you can review answers in the end.
5. Study strictly during the decided time and take breaks to refresh.
ACT vs SAT Exam Fee
Exam Fee | ACT (International fee ) |
The full ACT (no writing) | $186.50 |
The full ACT with writing | $211.50 |
Exam | SAT (International Fee) |
Without Essay | $103 |
For more detailed information on ACT and SAT exams, contact 麻豆国产 Consultants, the leading overseas study consultants in India.
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